The Fisheries Society of Nigeria (FISON) has urged the federal government to establish the Fisheries Institute of Nigeria (FIN) to strengthen the nation’s fisheries resources.
Speaking at the opening of the 39th Annual National Conference and Meeting & 20th Fellowship Investiture Ceremony in Abuja, FISON President, Dr Ebinimi Ansa emphasised the need for a formal institute to enhance capacity and professional standards in the sector.
“A top priority for FISON is establishing the Fisheries Institute of Nigeria. Professionalising fisheries and aquaculture will elevate our capacity and ensure compliance with global standards,” said Dr Ansa.
She called on the minister of marine and blue economy to sponsor the FIN bill as an executive bill for the National Assembly’s consideration.
Dr. Ansa highlighted that the institute would provide structured capacity building, certification, and professional development, facilitating knowledge transfer and best practices in fisheries management and marine resource sustainability.
This, she said, would position Nigeria to compete effectively in the regional and global fisheries markets.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, honoured with a fellowship award for creating a Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, affirmed his administration’s commitment to elevating Nigeria in the global blue economy.
Represented by Minister Adegboyega Oyetola, Tinubu said the transfer of the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy marks a strategic shift.
“This realignment is poised to boost Nigeria’s self-sufficiency in fish and establish the country as a key fish exporter globally,” he added.
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